Blending old and new will forever be a favourite of mine. That tension is so intriguing, and Fern Santini did just that in this Austin home – complete with huge modern addition. The dining features a vintage zinc top table and very modern chairs, the kitchen island displays vintage lab beakers on original stands, a vintage leather sofa takes pride of place in the study, the guest suite and laundry/office/sewing room maintains their original shiplap ceilings…. it’s such a wonderful mix of past and present.

Architect: Paul Lamb Architects
Builder: Pilgrim Building Company
Photography: Douglas Friedman

If you’re concerned about your environmental footprint and in the market for a sofa, check out this guide for sustainable sofa buying and ownership by Interiorbeat